Camilla Jessen
Kyiv hopes to rebuild ties with millions of Ukrainians abroad by allowing dual citizenship for the first time.
Ukraine has passed a historic new law that allows its citizens to hold more than one nationality, POLITICO and Digi24 reported.
The move is seen as a way to reconnect with the country’s global diaspora and to support Ukrainians who fled the war.
The law allows people of Ukrainian origin, especially those living in countries like Romania, Canada, or the U.S., to apply for Ukrainian citizenship without giving up their current one.
It also ensures that refugees can keep their Ukrainian citizenship even if they gain another abroad.
War and Population Decline
The change comes as Ukraine deals with a population crisis caused by Russia’s 2022 invasion. Millions have left, and birth rates are at record lows.
Ukrainian officials say the law will help bring people back and strengthen national unity.
“This decision is an important step in maintaining and restoring ties with millions of Ukrainians around the world,” wrote Oleksii Chernyshov, Ukraine’s Minister of National Unity.
Who Qualifies?
The government will soon decide which countries’ citizens will be allowed to have dual citizenship with Ukraine. Children born to Ukrainian parents abroad and Ukrainians who gain another citizenship through marriage will also benefit.
Foreigners who want to become Ukrainian citizens must pass a test on the Ukrainian language, history, and Constitution. The law also makes it easier for foreign volunteers fighting for Ukraine to become citizens.
However, people from “aggressor states” or countries that don’t respect Ukraine’s borders will be excluded from the program.
The European Union is closely watching the move. Former EU Commissioner Ylva Johansson was recently named the EU’s special envoy for Ukrainians and will work on long-term plans to help integrate refugees or assist their return.